Lord Marshall of Knightsbridge to head up VisitBritain

Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell today named Lord Marshall of Knighstbridge as the new chairman of tourist body VisitBritain.

Lord Marshall, who is a cross-bencher in the House of Lords with no allegiance to any political parties, will take over the reins from current chairman Sir Michael Lickiss on 2 January, 2005.

He will be paid £45,155 for the post.

Lord Marshall served as chief executive at British Airways for 13 years. He has held both executive and non-executive roles in tourism and other business sectors, and will become non-executive chair of Nomura International next month.

"I relish the challenge of leading VisitBritain as it continues to promote the growth and development of Britain's tourism industry," commented Lord Marshall.

"I am particularly committed to working with industry, both private and public sector, and other stakeholders to raise the profile of our diverse assets as a travel destination."

by Angela Frewin